New-generation Azera in shape to grab consumer attention

Hyundai’s Azera has been a relatively quiet offering, which hasn’t been in the spotlight like its Sonata and Genesis siblings.

A new-generation 2012 Azera has been introduced that likely will grab more consumer attention. It features fresh styling, increased comfort and pumped-up performance, and fills a slot in the lineup, said John Shon, manager of planning, Hyundai Motor America, as an “aspirational” car — a “destination product for move-up buyers.”

The new Azera, which Hyundai labels a “premium” FWD sedan, fits in the lineup between the popular midsize Sonata FWD sedan and Genesis RWD mid-luxury sedan.

Base priced at $32,000, the Azera wedges the roughly $13,500 price gap between the $23,148 Sonata and $36,694 Genesis. It’s also expected to appeal to a demographics segment with average ages between the 52-year-old Sonata buyer and 60-year-old Genesis buyer.

The Azera falls between Sonata and Genesis in exterior dimensions and, with a V-6 engine, is a step up in power from the Sonata, which only offers four-cylinder engines. The Azera shares its 3.3-liter V-6 with the Genesis, which also is offered with a larger six and a V-8 powerplant. Mated with Azera’s 3.3-liter is a six-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic manual-shift control.

Power and fuel efficiency are optimized via gasoline direct injection and dual continuously variable valve timing. With an output of 293 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 255 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,200 rpm, the V-6 does a respectable job at powering the Azera with spirit in the city and on the highway. Regular gas is recommended to fuel the engine, and estimated fuel economy is 20 city and 29 highway.

Ride quality is notably good, as a result of a compliant suspension with dual-valve Sachs Amplitude Selective Damping and comfortable, supportive seats. Seats are covered in standard leather upholstery and are heated, front and rear.

Hyundai boasts the passenger volume in the five-place cabin is best in segment. Sitting in the dual-cockpit front compartment, driver and front passenger benefit from an impressive list of convenience technologies housed in the bold, Y-shaped dashboard. A navigation system featuring a 7-inch color touchscreen and XM NavTraffic are standard. Also standard are a rear backup camera, 450-watt Dimension audio system, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, Bluetooth streaming audio and Blue Link Telematics.

Ever since the first Hyundai Genesis came out I liked its classic but unique lines that I felt bested comparable BMW and MB models, however this restyle of the Azera does not hit me as nearly as good an effort. It comes off as a cross between their Sonata model and the Lexus 460 with a bit of an Infinti looking front end. Just another attempt to be trendy. If I was going to buy a Huyndai I’d save up for the Genesis. The minor styling changes they have made to is since its introduction have only improved its looks. Hopefully they won’t try a major restyle on it that comes of looking anything like this new Azera.

Average ages of vehicle buyers are surprising — generally much higher than one would expect. Interestingly, the average age of an Azera buyer would match up well with the average age of a Corvette buyer.